credits: iStockphoto

Hot off the press, Textbook of Human Lactation combines the considerable knowledge of 40 authors—each a recognized expert in their field.

Textbook of Human Lactation reads like a Reader’s Digest of the science in the field of human lactation. There are six sections: Anatomy and Biochemistry, Immunobiology, Management of the Infant, Management of the Mother, Maternal and Infant Nutrition, and Medications.

Peter Hartmann introduces the text with a discussion of the human mammary gland—past, present and future, highlighting its dual role in providing protection and nutrition. The chapters that follow, focus on anatomy, physiology, histology, and cytology—everything you thought you wanted to know about the mammary gland and more!

Some chapters target specific topics such as hyperbilirubinemia, cosleeping, vitamin D, and polycystic ovary syndrome, while others have a broader context—such as nutrition in lactation and management of lactation in the puerperium. One-third of the chapters (12 of 35) contains information on the use of medications in breastfeeding mothers and infants, including a chapter on herbal therapeutics.

The majority of the chapters are relatively short, making the textbook a little less intimidating, given the complexity of the subject matter. There is an extensive bibliography at the end of each chapter for those who would like to further investigate the molecular aspects of mammary gland development, reproductive bioenergetics, or the histology and cytology of breastmilk!

Textbook of Human Lactation is an excellent resource for those seeking a summary of the science on a wide range of topics related to the care and management of breastfeeding women and children. Hopefully, this edition is the first of many.

Kudos to Drs. Hale and Hartmann!